# Effects of 8 Weeks of Neuromuscular and SAQ Training on Physical Performance in Youth Soccer Players

## TL;DR

This study compares neuromuscular and SAQ training effects on youth soccer players' physical performance over 8 weeks.

## Contribution

The study provides comparative evidence on modality-specific performance adaptations in youth athletes.

## Key findings

- Both training groups improved lower limb power significantly over 8 weeks.
- SAQ training showed superior agility improvements compared to neuromuscular training.
- Dynamic balance did not show significant changes in either group.

## Abstract

Backgrounds/Objectives: Adolescent soccer players are exposed to elevated injury risk due to rapid musculoskeletal development and high physical demands. Neuromuscular training (NMT) and speed–agility–quickness (SAQ) training are widely used to enhance performance and reduce injury risk in youth athletes. While both approaches are effective, comparative evidence regarding their modality-specific performance adaptations remains limited. Furthermore, few studies have discussed how such performance data may inform evidence-based or data-driven training selection in youth sports contexts. Methods: Thirty-six male youth soccer players with at least three years of playing experience, affiliated with Team A in Gyeonggi-do and Team B in Chungcheongbuk-do, participated in the study (NMTG, n = 21; SAQG, n = 15). Participants completed either an NMT or SAQ training program for eight weeks. To objectively assess exercise performance, pre- and post-tests were conducted measuring dynamic balance, vertical jump, zigzag run, and carioca. Results: Findings revealed a significant main effect of time for lower limb power (p < 0.05), but no significant group × time interaction, indicating that both NMTG and SAQG improved significantly over the 8-week period. Conversely, significant interaction effects were found for agility (p < 0.001), with SAQG demonstrating superior enhancements compared to NMTG. Dynamic balance showed no significant time effect or interaction. Conclusions: While NMTG and SAQG are equally effective for enhancing lower limb power, SAQG provides modality-specific advantages for agility in youth soccer players. These results emphasize time-dependent adaptations for power and the distinct benefits of SAQG for multi-directional speed. These adaptation profiles offer a data-driven framework for optimizing training selection in youth athletes.